How Sports Make Better Tech Leaders

In the world of tech, where long hours and constant problem-solving are common, staying active can clear your mind and help you focus better. For tech leaders, it isn’t just about staying healthy - it’s about finding new ideas, staying calm under pressure, and building the mental toughness needed to lead and tackle daily challenges.

The lessons learned while pushing through a tough run or a long ride often apply directly to the challenges of work and leadership.

Sports like running and cycling teach resilience. Just like in business, you face challenges that require you to adapt and keep going. Hitting a tough point in a race feels a lot like hitting a roadblock in a project. It forces you to slow down, rethink your approach, and push forward.

At the same time, these activities clear your mind. Research shows physical activity can spark creativity, helping you come up with fresh ideas and solutions when you're stuck.

Last year, I ran and cycled over 4,600 kilometers. Along the way, I learned a lot about my physical and mental limits. Every time I reached what felt like a breaking point, I discovered that with a slight change of strategy, I could push a little further. These experiences taught me valuable lessons about grit and adaptability, which I try to apply not only to sports but also to my daily work. Overcoming mental limits is like breaking through barriers in work — it’s uncomfortable, but it’s how growth happens.

Sports also teach patience and the importance of showing up consistently. Whether you’re training for a race or working on a big project, the key to progress is putting in regular effort, even when it feels tough or results aren’t immediate.

For tech leaders, this mindset is invaluable. It helps you stay focused on long-term goals, even when challenges arise. Sports remind us that success doesn’t happen overnight - it’s built one step, one mile, and one breakthrough at a time.

So next time you feel stuck or low on energy, go for a run.